Since its formation in April 2014, the Oracle Dark Skies Committee has been attending various events around Oracle and Pinal County to talk about its work to have Oracle State Park designated as an "International Dark Sky Park". The Committee also does public outreach on the effects of Light Pollution and how everyone can help reduce the problem and save money as well. Selected past events are mentioned here.

If you would like a Committee member to talk to your company, organization, or group of local residents, please contact Mike Weasner (520-289-3402 or mweasner@mac.com).

"Super Moon" Trail Music Event, Oracle State Park,
Saturday, 15 October 2016

Park visitors were able to do the very enjoyable pre-sunset walk along the Nature Trail Loop while taking in the sounds of live instrumental music at designated spots along the trail. After coming back to the Kannally Ranch House patio at sunset they were able to see views of the "Super Moon" Full Moon rising over the Galiuro Mountain range east of the Park.

Oracle Dark Skies Committee (ODSC) table and ODSC member Evaline Auerbach:

Four telescopes and a camera set up for the Super Moon rising, with the Kannally Ranch House in the background:

Moon rising over the Galiuro Mountains:

Some of the visitors being thrilled by the rising "Super Moon" from the vantage point of Oracle State Park:

Several people learned how to take photographs through the telescopes using their smartphone cameras. People were amazed at what could be done, as seen in this example taken with a handheld iPhone through the Park's Vixen telescope:

Once the Moon was high in the sky, this DSLR photograph taken using a 600mm telephoto lens shows the colors that can be photographed on the Full Moon:

About 100 visitors had a thoroughly enjoyable evening at Oracle State Park.

Thanks to the Friends of Oracle State Park, ODSC member Evaline Auerbach, and Chris and Sue Mobley for the event support.

Photos by Mike Weasner, Oracle Dark Skies Committee.

Past Events - 2016
Past Events - 2015
Past Events - 2014

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